What to expect in Dubrovnik
The Pearl of the Adriatic, as Dubrovnik is known, is an architecturally beautiful medieval city that is increasingly attracting tourists. The question immediately arises as to the effect of mass tourism: how long will the little town be able to hold out against the tourism machine? Dubrovnik, with just 45,000 inhabitants, has everything to seduce the traveller, with its ancient monuments and charming setting on the shores of turquoise-blue water. A definite advantage when it comes to budget: everything is pedestrianized and Dubrovnik can be visited for very little money. However, you’ll need to allow for a more substantial budget for sleeping and eating in Dubrovnik.
Is the cost of living in Dubrovnik high?
Flickr – archer10 (Dennis)
But don’t worry! The cost of living in Dubrovnik remains affordable. Remember, it’s a very small town. What will cost you money, apart from the hotel and restaurants, will be the activities, of which there are many in the surrounding area. Dubrovnik is sunny for 2/3 of the year, so opt for the quieter seasons, with milder weather, to avoid tourist crowds and rising prices.
What’s your budget for accommodation in Dubrovnik?
Accommodation in Dubrovnik is affordable, but it all depends on how comfortable you want it to be. In such a romantic city, you might want to treat yourself. But if you’re reasonable and prefer other activities or expenses, you’re free to choose a budget hotel.
Youth hostels: from €12-13 per night
Hotel **: from €25-30 per night
Hotel ***: from €35-50 per night
Hotel ****: from €60-70 per night
Hotel *****: from €80-100 per night
1 week apartment rental: approx. €500-600
Don’t forget to check the offers in advance to get the best price for the period.
Flickr – hozinja
How much can you afford to eat in Dubrovnik?
When it comes to eating out in Dubrovnik, you won’t necessarily have to spend too much, as there are a number of inexpensive restaurants here, not to mention the fact that fast-food prices aren’t all that high compared to Western Europe. But then again, if you decide to treat yourself, the bill can quickly rise. Don’t forget to add (traditionally) a 10% tip!
Prices for eating out in Dubrovnik:
Fast food (chain): from €4
Fast food: €7-10
Local restaurant: €10-15
Mid-range restaurant: €20-25
As you can see, prices are not high. If you’re on a budget, there’s plenty of scope to limit your spending and take full advantage of local tourist activities.
Some price ideas in Dubrovnik
Single public transport ticket: €1.50 (10 Croatian kuna) from the driver, but buy your ticket at a kiosk for €1.30.
Can of Coke: €2
Cappuccino: €1.80
Pack of cigarettes: €3
Cab (1 km): €1.10
Dubrovnik funicular: €7.80 (60 kuna) one way, €13 (100 kuna) return
Don’t forget to add a 10% tip to your regular payments (cab, restaurants, bars).
As it turns out, the travel budget for Dubrovnik doesn’t have to be as high as you might initially think. In fact, as is often the case, if your priority is to stick to a tight budget, you’ll have no trouble treating yourself to a cheap, leisurely visit to Dubrovnik. However, if you’re staying here, try to allocate a little more of your budget to comfort, to ensure a perfect vacation.